Any University of Bordeaux-affiliated or PUI researcher: faculty, postdocs, PhD students, or clinicians with hospital appointments. In any case, the project leader or the co-leader must by employed by the University of Bordeaux.

You should have preliminary proof-of-concept data (preferably from animal models, if applicable) and a clear hypothesis for clinical application. IP strategy must have been thought through. Projects that are too early (just an idea) will not be competitive, while projects that are too advanced (already licensed or in clinical trials) do not need SPARK.

All areas with unmet medical need. Past projects span drug development, diagnostics, services, and medical devices across rare diseases, pain management, oncology, neuroscience, eye surgery and hearing disorders.

The core SPARK program lasts 24 months, but relationships continue informally beyond that.

Up to €75,000 in total for 2 years

Active participation: regular mentor meetings, communication with the program manager, milestone execution, attendance at SPARK events. Expect to invest 5-10 hours per quarter.

Yes. Existing grants are fine. SPARK funding is designed to fill gaps and accelerate specific translational milestones.

We provide feedback and encourage reapplication. Our chargé.e.s d’innovation will also support you in finding the right path and preparing for reapplication.

Absolutely. We work closely with AST to ensure strong IP protection and support startup formation when that is the best path forward. The AST Maturation Programme* complements SPARK. SPARK can come before or after the maturation programme, depending on the nature of the project.

*download AST's brochure to know more